Faces of First-Gen

Tebraie Banda-Johns
Associate Director, Student Care and Support
Cornish College of the Arts at Seattle University

“You are not alone in your educational journey here at SU. Know that you can always tap on the diverse first-gen community around you to get all of your questions answered. Each of you bring a unique cultural wealth to our vibrant campus and I am always available if you ever need any support!”

Tom Bull
Assistant Vice President, Alumni Engagement

“Say yes to adventure. Even without a clear path to college, saying yes gave me the courage to take that step. It’s been my guiding star ever since, and I encourage others to stay open to the opportunities that come their way.”

Dr. Monica Casper
Dean, College of Arts and Sciences
Professor of Sociology

“You belong here - even if it doesn’t always feel that way. I struggled with this when I started college. But I looked around, saw that others were also struggling, and realized we were all in it together, even if we came from radically different circumstances. You belong - and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. If you need a reminder, please reach out.”

Gerald Corporal
Assistant Dean of Student Engagement
Albers School of Business and Economics

“Every member of our community contributes to our collective Seattle University story. Your own story as the first in your family to attend college is beautiful and important. We owe it to you to support and uplift you so that your story also includes becoming the first in your family to graduate from college.”

Shawn Dodge
Director, Veteran and Military Affiliated Students

“I started as a music major because I loved playing the tenor saxophone in high school and I did not know much about college when I arrived at the University of Oregon. I quickly realized that college was more about broadening perspectives and identifying passions for the future; so, I did just that. I met some great people, earned an Army ROTC scholarship, joined every club I could think of, and left college with lifelong friends, mentors, and incredible memories.

“My advice to FIRST GEN students is to empower yourselves to ask the question, seek the help, meet with the group, go to office hours, etc. There are so many resources, programs, and people in place that want YOU to be successful. The institution exists for you, not the other way around. Good luck. Come say hello anytime.”

Dr. Burkhard Englert
Amazon Endowed Chair, Computer Science
College of Science and Engineering

“I am a first-generation college graduate and currently serve as the Amazon Endowed Chair at SU. My advice to first-generation students is this: the key is not to be afraid, realize that you are tremendous and that you matter. You belong here, and your voice matters. The path may not always be clear, but your presence is meaningful, not just for yourself, but for those who will follow. In many ways, we are giving back simply by being here and opening doors for others. Seek out mentors, ask questions, and know that your experiences and perspective are strengths.”

Dr. Diala Ezzeddine
Assistant Teaching Professor
College of Science and Engineering

“Being a first-generation college graduate is something I carry with pride. I remember how hard I fought to get here, the struggles, the fear, the hard work, and the feeling of being an outsider trying to belong. Looking back, I would not change a thing. Every one of those moments built me into who I am today. That experience shapes how I show up for my family, friends, colleagues, and students, and how deeply I value the story each of you brings to this community. I want to encourage you to see your background as a source of strength, not a limitation. I am always here to listen, share, and to remind you that you can succeed here and everywhere you go.”

Carol Lwali
Director, Career Engagement

“As an immigrant, navigating the university system can feel like learning a complex new language while simultaneously trying to understand your academics. It is important to remember that you are not expected to walk this path in isolation; there is a vast network of community and support ready to rally around you. By reaching out and asking for help, you honor the many helping hands that make this journey possible and ensure you never have to move forward alone.”

Dr. Shane Martin
Provost

“One thing I learned as a first-generation student at a Jesuit university is not to be shy about building relationships, especially with faculty: speak up, go to office hours, engage, and overcome the tendency to isolate. The whole university is ready to support you.”

Christopher Milliken
Executive Director of Career Engagement

“You belong in every room you walk into even if it doesn’t always feel that way at first. Your perspective, your experiences, and your story matter. Networking is simply sharing that story and being open to others’ stories too. If you’re not sure where to start, that’s okay. You don’t have to figure it out alone. I’d be glad to connect, support, and help you take that first step.”

Dr. Jeremy Peña
Director, First-Generation Student Support

“Walking into an office and asking for help was one of the best decisions I ever made as a first-gen student. Seattle University has an incredible network of people, programs, and resources who genuinely want to see you succeed, so step through every open door and take full advantage of what is here for you!”

Nodia Rogers
Director for Student and Campus Life
Cornish College of the Arts at Seattle University

“You are not the only one looking for the answer. Be yourself in all spaces, challenging any of society’s norms. Cast a wide net, expanding your circle, expands your resources.”

Dr. Jennifer Sorenson
Teaching Professor
Environmental Science Affiliate

“I thought I had to “do it all” on my own – I commuted, worked two jobs to pay for school, and studied a lot. I wish I had talked to someone in the financial aid office to understand whether loans or additional scholarships could relieve some of the pressure. I also wish I had engaged in communal learning rather than always studying alone. Take advantage of all the opportunities at SU to learn in companionship with others, whether that is a weekly study date with classmates, LAP (Learning Assistance Program) services, or talking to your professors outside of class – we’re here to support you!”

Brittney Sullivan-Deines
Administrative Coordinator, Orientation Programs

“As a first-gen student, I did not ask the majority of the questions that were bouncing around in my head during my college experience because I had internalized the idea that I should just know the answers… You are not expected to know all the answers and asking questions does not negatively reflect on your intelligence. Ask questions! If the answer doesn’t click right away, ask the question again until it does!”

Dr. Brian Taberski
Associate Director for Liturgy, Worship & Formation - University Ministry
Assistant Clinical Professor, Theology & Religious Studies

“Being first-gen often means living within a web of tensions: balancing our family’s hopes with our own dreams; navigating experiences that are as new to us as they are unfamiliar to them. It’s good to recognize that while our lives may diverge from those of our forefathers and foremothers, we can still honor all they have done to help us reach this generational and familial milestone.”

“Naming these tensions is a strength; it allows us to navigate them with both creativity and gratitude. Throughout history, the bridge between remembering our roots and dreaming of our future has inspired endless expressions of art and literature. Ultimately, your college years aren’t meant for “figuring it all out”—they are a season for becoming aware of just how much you have been given. Those gifts will bear great fruits in the future you are discovering. Deo Gratia.”

Mikaela Wallin
Associate Director of Wellness and Health Promotion

“Never let anyone make you feel like you are not exactly where you need to be. You belong here. You belong in all the spaces you exist. I was a first-gen college student, and it took me a long time to realize this, and I wished I had someone to remind me. Remind yourself, tell others, and remember that just because you’re the first doesn’t make you any less worthy or deserving of your place here.”

Dr. Natalie Welch
Program Director, MBA in Sport & Entertainment
Assistant Professor of Marketing

“It’s common to feel like you don’t belong! I’ve always struggled with imposter syndrome, but I remind myself that I have put in the work to earn my place. Please know that you are worthy. Your perspective can’t be replicated. Try your best to stay true to yourself!”